Abou Diaby set for Arsenal return against Chelsea U21s

Arsenal’s forgotten man Abou Diaby could be set for a shock return to action as early as tonight.

The Gunners host Chelsea’s under-21s at the Emirates Stadium, and Arsene Wenger confirmed the French midfielder is fit to make his first appearance since he suffered knee ligament damage in March last year.

‘He is back in full training now and available to play,’ Wenger told Arsenal Player.

‘He might play a part of the game for the under-21s.

‘Yes of course [he could play for the first team this season], it depends how well he comes out of the game. He hasn’t played for a year but physically he is ready to play, completely. It is now just decision-making, getting used to challenges again. He needs a game.

‘Everybody [counted him out] but he is fit and ready.’

Diaby has made just 15 appearances since 2011/12 after suffering a number of injuries.